Premier Home Upgrades Inc. is a family owned and operated construction company, providing high-end kitchen and bathroom remodels throughout Southern Ontario since 2011. Specializing in custom carpentry and millwork, they offer expert installation, as well as quality craftmanship and attention to detail from the initial planning stages right through to the finishing touches.
Owner and Operator Airik Lenz and his team recently completed a stunning kitchen renovation in Shelburne, Ontario that transformed a dated space that lacked in flow and functionality into a modern entertainer’s delight.
When Shawn and Courtenay Scerni first met with Airik to discuss their dream kitchen, they knew right away that Premier was the right choice. “Shawn loves to cook, and we love to entertain family and friends”, says Courtenay. “Airik is a family friend and we had been telling him for some time that we wanted to make our kitchen more conducive to our needs and lifestyle. After discussing our ideas and listening to his feedback, we knew he was the right guy for the job!”.
The Scerni’s home, originally built in the early 2000’s had a small, C-shaped kitchen with little storage and inadequate countertop space. “It was definitely time for an update”, says Airik. “We wanted to create the perfect space for their lifestyle, with an open concept layout that easily flowed from indoor to outdoor areas. We also wanted to give Shawn and Courtenay more prep and entertaining room. We completely changed the layout, relocating the sink and the appliances and built a large custom island with ample storage. We gave them a sleek, modern design with many added features to make their kitchen the centerpiece of the main floor, that would give them the entertaining space that was so important to them”.
To start, Airik and his team installed white maple cabinets with recessed under counter LED lighting that allows for maximum clearance to the counters for added workspace. All the lower cabinets are full extension pull out drawers, providing easier access and added storage. A full pantry with hidden microwave shelf and wine rack were installed, and a custom range hood was designed to offer continuity and further compliment the sleek, modern appearance. “We almost tripled their storage capacity, and improved their entertaining space, while at the same time giving them better flow to the dining/living area and their outdoor entertaining space”, says Airik of the new kitchen design. “We created an oversized center island that includes additional storage and prep space as well as counter seating that accommodates 4 people. There are many things that people do not consider when planning and renovating their kitchen” explains Airik. “Hiring a professional to complete the job will ensure the result of your project is a beautiful, functional space that you can enjoy for many years to come.”
Here are a few basic suggestions to create an entertaining space that you will love:
ISLAND DREAMS – The right kitchen island provides additional storage, electrical outlets, preparation space, and entertaining space all in one! It also provides a visual centerpiece to your main floor and a cohesive transition from living to kitchen areas and beyond.
KNOW WHO YOU ARE –Your new kitchen should fit your tastes and preferences and work with the rest of your home. If you plan to move in the next 5-10 years, keep resale in mind and try to create a space that would be appealing to a wide range of potential buyers.
LIGHT IT UP – Add under counter task lighting over prep spaces and install pendulums over your center island. Use dimmer switches on pot lights and overhead fixtures so that you can brighten the room as needed or create a mood when dining and entertaining.
KEEP IT LOW MAINTENANCE – Use materials such as porcelain or quartz that require less maintenance and are easy to clean. Spending a little extra up front in these areas will help to keep your kitchen looking beautiful.
CONSIDER THE EXTRAS – Adding a pot filler above the stove reduces the need to lift heavy water-filled pots and reduces spills. In-cabinet pull out garbage, recycling and compost cabinets make separating garbage easy and convenient. Ensure you have sufficient electrical outlets for small appliances, including on centre islands and coffee stations. Soft close drawers and cupboards reduce slamming and extend the life of your cabinetry. Wine racks and beverage refrigerators are a great added touch.
“Kitchens and bathrooms add value to your home”, says Airik. “We want to make sure that every project we complete is a work of art. We take pride in what we do, and we feel confident that our level of craftsmanship is unequalled”. Suffice to say, Airik and his team of professionals made their clients’ dream kitchen an awe-inspiring reality.
Premier Home Upgrades Inc. is based in Halton Hills, Ontario and serves clients throughout Southern Ontario. They pride themselves on exceptional design and craftsmanship, competitive pricing and defined timelines. They offer a quality guarantee on all of their work. Please visit their website: premierhomeupgrades.ca or call Airik Lenz for more information at 647-965-1690
STORY & PHOTOS BY: TANYA BOTTOMLEY | RESOURCES: PREMIER HOME UPGRADES INC.
